Political Science & Public Administration

Political Science is the study of governments, public policies and political behavior using both humanistic and scientific perspectives and skills to examine the countries and regions of the world See APSA.

The department of political science supports the mission of Washburn University by providing its students with opportunities “to develop and to realize their intellectual, academic, and professional potential” by providing the curriculum for the Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and the Bachelor of Public Administration degree. In addition, the department provides the curriculum necessary for the completion of a certificate of non-profit management, and houses limited offerings in the academic field of geography for the university.

The Political Science Department administers the two degrees of political science (BA), and public administration (BPA), a Certificate of Non-Profit Management (see also the Department of Human Services), and Geography Courses.

What's an Ichabod?

Washburn's mascot, the Ichabod, honors the school's early benefactor, Ichabod Washburn, a 19th century Massachusetts industrialist. The original design of the studious-looking, tuxedo-clad figure was created in 1938 by Bradbury Thompson (ba '34), who became an internationally acclaimed graphic artist. Design wasn't Thompson's only consideration. To the stylized Ichabod the artist attributed the qualities of "...courage and enthusiasm, as shown by his brisk walk. He is democratic and courteous, for he tips his hat as he passes. Sincere in his search for truth and knowledge, he studiously carries a book under his arm..."